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Goals for a Productive and Respectful Town Hall

February 22, 2017

Press Release

Otsego, MN – In advance of Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06)’s February 22nd town hall, David FitzSimmons, Emmer’s Chief of Staff, released the following statement:

“As an office, we are proud of the fact that we held 24 town halls in the first 24 months (including two in-person town halls in each of the seven counties he represents) Congressman Emmer was in office. For the Congressman, these events are helpful to hear from the people he represents when looking at issues facing this nation.

Unfortunately, reports about town halls across this country over the past few weeks have been troubling. What should be an open and respectful forum to discuss ideas and opinions have often turned into shouting, chanting, and other disruptive behavior, from which no one benefits.

Tomorrow night, we are looking forward to a productive and healthy conversation for the Congressman to hear the thoughts, concerns and suggestions from his constituents. However, should this event turn into a disruptive display, or if there are any violent actions or threats, we will end the meeting and be forced to reassess our policy on town halls going forward. The safety of staff, law enforcement, and constituents must remain paramount. Behavior that goes beyond the bounds of civil discourse is threatening to drive into extinction the civic institution known as a town hall meeting."